How and Where to Celebrate Hanukkah in Rhode Island

Rhode Island has plenty of Hanukkah happenings planned throughout the eight-day-long holiday celebration.

December 9, 2024

Kaitlyn Murray, Erika Spitznagel,

Hanukkah Dinner. Family Gathered Around The Table Sharing Challah

Via Getty Images.

For those who may not be as familiar with the history of the widely celebrated Jewish holiday, the story of Hanukah begins around 166 BC when King Antiochus IV of the Greek Empire outlawed Judaism and defiled the Holy Temple in Jerusalem. In response, a small Jewish army known as the Maccabees led a successful rebellion against the Greeks. But when they returned to the Temple to relight the ritual candelabra (menorah), there was only enough oil left to last one day. Miraculously, it lasted eight. Today, Jewish people celebrate Hanukkah and commemorate the Maccabees’ victory with eight nights of menorah lightings and fried food (made with oil) consumption.

While many traditionally do their celebrating with family at home, Rhode Island does have plenty of Hanukkah happenings throughout the week for your consideration:

Kosher Senior Cafe Hanukkah Celebration

When: Friday, December 20, 11a.m.-1p.m.

Where: 401 Elmgrove Ave, Providence

What: The Kosher Senior Cafe will be hosting their Hanukkah celebration featuring live music from Stanley Freedman and Friends followed by a delicious holiday meal.

More info: jewishrhody.com

Chanukah at Shalom Apartments

When: Wednesday, December 25, 5:30 p.m.

Where: Shalom Apartments

What: A traditional menorah lighting ceremony complete with hot latkes and a gelt and dreidel game.

More info: rabbiwarwick.com

Hanukkah Spectaculah

When: Thursday, December 26, 4:45p.m.-6:00p.m.

Where: Providence City Hall

What: Menorah Lighting outside Providence City Hall followed by food, music and art inside the building.

More info: jewishrhody.com

Chanukah at Pawtuxet Park

When: Thursday, December 26, 7p.m.

Where: Pawtuxet Park Warwick

What: Menorah Lighting- hot latkes, gelt, Dreidels and more

More info: jewishrhody.com

Menorah Lighting at East Greenwich Town Hall

When: Saturday, December 28, 6p.m.

Where: East Greenwich Town Hall Front Lawn

What: The menorah lighting ceremony will also include hot latkes, Chanukah gelt, snacks, music and Chanukah greetings from dignitaries.

More info: rabbiwarwick.com

Menorah Lighting in Warwick Mall

When: Sunday, December 29, 4:30p.m.

Where: Warwick Mall near JC Penney

What: Menorah Lighting and Chanukah along with hot latkes, donuts, gift shop and A & C for children.

More info: rabbiwarwick.com

Menorah Lighting Ceremony on the RI State House

When: Monday, December 30, 6:00p.m.

Where: RI State House

What: Enjoy a celebratory occasion of the Menorah Lighting followed by Greetings from Dignitaries, hot latkes, gelt and more.

More info: jewishrhody.com

Cranston City Hall Menorah Lighting

When: Tuesday, December 31, 4:30p.m.

Where: Lobby of Cranston City Hall

What: The menorah lighting ceremony will also include hot latkes, Chanukah gelt, snacks, music and Chanukah greetings from dignitaries.

More info: jewishrhody.com

But if you are planning to stick closer to home, consider picking up a delicious Hanukkah-appropriate goodie or two from one of the following Jewish (or Jew-ish, as the self-proclaimed case may be for some) bakeries: